We all have heard that dogs can be great therapists, but we always wonder how? According to some studies, therapy dogs have a tendency to reduce blood pressure and stress hormones. Yes, not every dog can be a service dog or a therapy dog. There are different breeds of dogs that go through special training to be able to help their owners with everyday situations.
If you are struggling with day-to-day life, feeling overwhelmed or depressed, these emotional support animals are there for individuals seeking comfort. Very Well Mind states that patients who had difficult surgeries or bad accidents, if they get animal-assisted therapy, may feel less pain, according to research.
Keep reading this article and get to know more about therapy dogs.
Low Energy Therapy Dog Breed
Pet therapy is becoming common these days, especially for elderly people or people with disabilities. Here’s the list of best low-energy dog breeds, who don’t ask much from you but can give you much-needed comfort with their playful and affectionate nature.
1. French Bulldog
Known for their quiet and calm nature, French bulldogs can be great therapy dogs. These low-energy dogs love to stay close to their owner and enjoy following them around the house. The best thing about them is that they require moderate exercise. You don’t have to waste your energy by taking them on long walks.
These flat-faced, small dogs have a tight bond with their owners, which contributes to their effectiveness as therapy dogs. Their intelligence makes them good learners and suitable for the required training as therapy dogs.
They love to be the center of attention, which can distract you from overwhelming emotions. They love to show their owners tricks such as “stand”, “sit”, and “drop”.
They are also low-maintenance, so when it comes to grooming, you don’t have to do much. Other than that, they are always alert, they know what’s happening in their surrounding. If you are facing issues like anxiety, depression, they will be right beside you to bring you comfort.
2. Pug
Similar to French bulldogs, Pugs are considered as best therapy dogs. They are fond of children and love to spend their time with them.
Due to this nature, highly intelligent pugs are great with children who have neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism. Not only that people with disabilities also find pugs as great companions due to their strong emotional senses.
AKC defines Pugs as ultimate companions. They are one of the oldest dog breeds that originated in 400 B.C. They were owned by different monarchs, including Queen Victoria and Prince William. These dogs were born with many amazing traits. While having a playful and affectionate nature, they are also great watchdogs.
3. Great Dane
Great Dane, famous as the “Gentle Giant,” is almost a yard tall. But don’t let this big dog fool you, this dog breed is very protective and loves to spend time with family. They thrive on lots of attention and love, which makes them an amazing family dog.
They are excellent therapy dogs, but sadly, their life span is just 7-10 years. Also, keep in mind that, according to AKC, they can cost a lot when it comes to food and medical expenses, so it’s wise to consider ways to save money.
But despite all this, they have great energy both mentally and physically, they will always be there for you when you need them.
Their eager-to-please nature makes them good learners, which helps in their early training. They are one of the largest dog breeds, but have such a gentle nature that they wouldn’t even hurt a fly.
4. Great Pyrenees
The giant dog breed originated from the Pyrenees Mountains between Spain and France are incredibly fast dog. Mostly known for their beautiful, thick white coat, they were originally bred to be livestock guard dogs. However, due to their loving and kind nature, they are also great therapy dogs.
Other than that, AKC mentions that they are very intelligent and independent dogs; they adapt to things very quickly. One thing to keep in mind is that they love snuggling with family members, so yes, you will have to say bye to your personal space with them.
They are very low-energy dog breeds; they are not up for long walks. They require moderate daily activities; just a walk for 30-60 minutes daily is enough to keep them healthy and happy.
5. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu are known for their friendly disposition, they are great at making strong connections with their owners. Don’t let their small size fool you. As small as they are, they have big hearts. They have an attentive and loving nature.
Shih Tzu are skilled at sensing their owner’s mood, which makes them a great choice as a therapy dog. These couch potatoes can easily adjust to apartment living. They are also easy to train, due to their intelligence.
No need to worry about their training, Shih Tzu loves to learn, and training can be the best time to create a good bond with them. As per Pet Plan, they can be stubborn sometimes, they are known as “little lions” due to their playful and feisty temperament.
6. Pomeranian
These tiny creatures come with large personalities. These small dogs often carry the confidence of a big dog. According to PetMD, with a life span of 12-16 years, these dogs are one of the longest living dog breeds.
They have a playful nature but don’t require much outdoor activities, they will be happy if you give them enough attention and belly rubs. Their loving and devoted nature makes them excellent therapy dogs. They show high intelligence and are always ready for any type of challenge; this trait of theirs makes their training much easier.
This dog breed is great support for people who have psychiatric health issues, such as Autism and anxiety issues. Furthermore, according to Pomeranian, they have the ability to sense when their owners’ blood sugar reaches dangerous levels and let them know.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The sparkly, soulful eyes of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are enough to bring a smile to anyone’s face. These small dogs with royal history love human companionship. Their size and low energy level make them well-suited for small spaces such as nursing rooms.
As they are low maintenance breed, you don’t have to take them for regular grooming or excessive exercise. Just take them for short walks and they will be happy. As per PDSA, they are known as “Comfort Spaniel”; they only want to spend quality time with you.
Feeling anxious? put them on your lap, rub their soft fur, and watch your mood change in a couple of minutes.
Wrapping It Up
These were just some names of good therapy dogs; there are more dogs available, such as Basset hound, clumber spaniel, Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, and many more. If you are looking for low-energy therapy dogs who are always there to bring you comfort, these are the best choices for you. Not only does their calm demeanor bring peace to your life it can also help you heal yourself.
